I used the Wilders search function and did not see much on Spin Rite, which is sold as a software to diagnose and even repair hard drive damage. http://www.grc.com/sr/spinrite.htm

I'm wondering if this could include damage from malware, or incompatable softwares butting heads. I've read that changing security devices can degrade drivers over time... And I've had mixed results using registry cleaners/rebuilders.

#1 It's an outstanding product
#2 I have not found anything better
#3 Both
#4 No

It boots from "FreeDos" so it bypasses your OS. It takes along time 6 hrs or more.

Note: A long time ago. I used to back-up my Quicken data to floppy disk. After a format, I used my Quicken floppies to try & restore my data. One of the disks was damaged, the restore stopped. I used Spinrite on the floppy & was able to restore my data.